Bottom-powered electrostatic precipitator

Abstract

A high-voltage electrostatic precipitator is powered by a transformer supported below the high-voltage electrodes. A lead-in conductor extends from the transformer to the electrodes through a screen-covered aperture in the precipitator housing. Purging gas is directed through the aperture to prevent accumulation of particulates on the lead-in conductor.

What is claimed is: 
     
       1. An electrostatic precipitator comprising a housing structure enclosing an array of elongate corona-generating electrodes, an upper end of each corona-generating electrode being attached to means for suspending said electrode within said housing structure, a lower end of each corona-generating electrode being attached to an electrically conductive means for applying electric power to said corona-generating electrodes, said electrically conductive means including a lead-in conductor extending outside said precipitator through an aperture in said housing structure to a step-up transformer, said transformer being supported at a level lower than said array of corona-generating electrodes, means for providing a flow of purging gas through said aperture into said housing structure during precipitator operation in order to inhibit accumulation of particulates on said lead-in conductor; and a screen member covering said aperture to prevent accumulation of particulates on said lead-in conductor. 
     
     
       2. The electrostatic precipitator of claim 1 wherein said lead-in conductor makes electrical contact with a high-voltage lead extending from said transformer, said electrical contact occurring at a mechanical slip-joint outside said housing structure. 
     
     
       3. The electrostatic precipitator of claim 1 wherein a baffle structure is mounted inside said housing structure circumjacent said aperture to inhibit deposition of particulates on said screen member.